On Monday, 21 August 2017, all of North America will be able to observe the unique celestial phenomenon of a solar Eclipse. Anyone who is on the path of the Eclipse will be able to see the Moon completely obscures the Sun, which is the visible solar corona — the outer atmosphere of the Sun and the brightest stars and planets. This path starts from Salem, Oregon, and stretches to Charleston, South Carolina. Observers outside this band will still be able to observe a partial solar Eclipsewhen the moon covers only part of the solar disk.
NASA recommends
Despite the fact that the total Eclipse will last only about 2.5 minutes, watching him have to follow certain safety rules. Experts do not recommend to look directly at the Sun, as this may be detrimental to the individual’s vision. The only safe way to observe the partially covered Sun is to use special Eclipse glasses with filter-protected glasses. Homemade filters or usual sunglasses, even very dark, do not provide the required level of protection. Currently 4 specialized optics manufacturer has certified their Eclipse glasses as meeting the international standards:
- Rainbow Symphony,
- American Paper Optics,
- Thousand Oaks Optical,
- The TSE 17.
Before you use these glasses, make sure the glass is not damaged: it should not be any scratches and chips. Children must use these points only under adult supervision. To put on and take off the special glasses can not only gazing at the Sun.
On Eclipse you can’t look through the camera lens, a telescope, binoculars or any other optical devicesthat do not have a special filter, even if you are wearing special glasses. The sun’s rays passing through the camera lenses or telescope, can damage the filter points and penetrate into the eye, which can lead to serious injury.
When you can remove your glasses?
If you are on the path of the Eclipse, to remove special glasses is possible only when the Moon completely obscure the Sun, causing it gets dark. When the bright sun again will begin to appear, again put on his glasses to continue to monitor the remaining partial phases.
Custom alternative
An alternative method of safe observation is the projection of point projection. For example, you can cross straight, slightly apart fingers. Become back to the Sun and look at the shadow of his hands on the ground. Small gaps between the fingers will show a grid of small images of the Sun as a Crescent during the partial phases of the Eclipse.
A solar Eclipse is a miracle of nature. Following these rules, you will be able to enjoy the spectacular show without risking their own health.
